Beyond a passport, two of the most essential tools for frequent travelers are Global Entry and TSA PreCheck. They’re each a Trusted Traveler Program offered by the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and they’re designed to make the travel process easier for low-risk individuals. If you’re considering Global Entry vs. TSA PreCheck and aren’t sure which one is best for you, here’s what you need to know.
Global Entry vs. TSA PreCheck?
If you’re deciding between Global Entry and TSA PreCheck, know that they are two entirely separate programs, and they work well in tandem for frequent travelers. And, perhaps most importantly, Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck. But there are cases in which you might prefer TSA PreCheck alone.
Here’s the quick breakdown: Global Entry costs $120 for five years and gives you expedited customs clearance when returning to the US, plus all TSA PreCheck benefits. TSA PreCheck costs between $78 and $85 for five years (depending on your enrollment provider) and only covers expedited security screening at US airports.
TSA vs. Global Entry: the costs
TSA PreCheck enrollment fees vary by authorized provider and may include promotional discounts. Current provider pricing typically ranges from approximately $78 to $85, though you should confirm the exact fee on the TSA PreCheck enrollment page before applying. Global Entry costs $120 (as of October 2024), and it includes TSA PreCheck. Both memberships last for five years.
Two different application processes
Both Global Entry and TSA PreCheck start with online applications but via different websites. Global Entry takes applications via the Trusted Traveler Program website, while TSA PreCheck uses third-party companies for applications.
Both programs also require in-person appointments to complete the application process, at which your biometric data will be recorded. TSA lists hundreds of active PreCheck enrollment locations across the country, making it far easier to schedule a TSA PreCheck enrollment appointment.
Additionally, TSA PreCheck has a much shorter processing time than Global Entry. TSA PreCheck processing times are usually 3 to 5 days, but can take up to 60 days. Global Entry processing times commonly run several months (often cited as roughly 4 to 6 months), though actual timelines vary widely. Some applicants are approved in days while others experience wait times of many months.
How does it work for kids?
With TSA PreCheck, children 12 and under can use the TSA PreCheck lane with their parent or guardian who is enrolled in the program. Children 13 to 17 can use TSA PreCheck only if the TSA PreCheck indicator appears on their boarding pass (the adult and child must be on the same reservation, or the child must have their own enrollment). Children can also sign up for their own TSA PreCheck membership.
With Global Entry, children are only permitted to use the Global Entry lane at immigration if they have their own membership. Each traveler, regardless of age, must have an individual Global Entry enrollment to use the kiosks. Minors under 18 require parental consent and may be eligible for fee waivers in certain cases.
If you’re deciding between Global Entry and TSA PreCheck, know that they are two entirely separate programs, and they work well in tandem for frequent travelers. And, perhaps most importantly, Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck. But there are cases in which you might prefer TSA PreCheck alone.
What is Global Entry?
Global Entry is a Trusted Traveler Program administered by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). It provides expedited processing through self-service kiosks and dedicated lines for pre-approved, low-risk travelers at participating air, land and certain seaport ports of entry in the US. The most important thing to note about Global Entry is that it includes TSA PreCheck for its members.
How does it work?
When you arrive at a US airport from an international flight, follow the signs for the Global Entry lane at immigration. You’ll take your photo at a kiosk, which processes your information, then you’ll see a CBP officer for a final check. This line is usually much faster than the standard line.
Who is it made for?
Global Entry is best for those who travel internationally at least once a year. The program is open to US citizens and lawful permanent residents. Citizens of many partner countries (including Argentina, Australia, Bahrain, Brazil, Canada/NEXUS, Colombia, Croatia, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Germany, India, Japan, Mexico, The Netherlands, Panama, Republic of Korea, Singapore, Switzerland, Taiwan, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, and others) may also be eligible subject to country-specific arrangements and requirements. Always check CBP’s International Arrangements page for the current partner list and country-specific conditions.
How to apply for Global Entry?
To apply for Global Entry, you must first create a Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) account and submit the Global Entry application online through the Trusted Traveler Program website. Once your application is conditionally approved, you must complete an in-person interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center or via Enrollment on Arrival. A CBP officer will verify your identity, take fingerprints and a photo, and CBP/DHS conducts background checks as part of adjudication. After final approval, CBP issues Global Entry membership and (for those eligible) mails the Global Entry card, which is primarily used for land and sea ports of entry.
What is TSA PreCheck?
TSA PreCheck is an expedited screening program operated by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). When eligible for TSA PreCheck screening, you generally don’t need to remove shoes, belts, light jackets, laptops or compliant liquids from your carry-on bag during security screening. Participation is limited to eligible travelers and is displayed as an indicator on the boarding pass.
How does it work?
To use TSA PreCheck, you must add your Known Traveler Number (KTN) to your airline reservation, which you can do when you book your flight, any time after you book your flight via the airline website or customer service line, or at the check-in desk. A TSA PreCheck logo should be on your boarding pass, which provides access to the TSA PreCheck lane.
Expert tip: TSA PreCheck lane availability is managed locally at airports. Some PreCheck lanes have limited hours and may be closed, so it’s possible the lanes may be closed before your flight. Plan accordingly.
Who is it made for?
TSA PreCheck is for any US citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident who flies either domestically or internationally. Given its cost, it might be best for those who fly at least a few times per year.
How to apply to TSA PreCheck?
To apply for TSA PreCheck, you start the enrollment on the TSA website and choose any TSA-authorized enrollment provider to complete the application and in-person enrollment. TSA authorizes multiple enrollment providers (example providers listed by TSA include IDEMIA, Telos, and CLEAR). Providers, locations and prices can change, so applicants should confirm on tsa.gov/precheck. After you apply online, you will need to visit an enrollment center in-person for a brief appointment (document check, fingerprints, photo).
Expert tip: Pick the provider that has an enrollment location near you. TSA’s PreCheck pages list hundreds of active enrollment locations, and numbers fluctuate.
Tips to save some money on the application fees
Many premium credit cards offer credits for either Global Entry or TSA PreCheck. If you use an eligible card to pay for your application fee, it will automatically be reimbursed to your account. The perk typically renews every four to five years, which means you can use it to renew your Global Entry or TSA PreCheck membership.
Many premium travel credit cards provide a statement credit that reimburses the Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee (subject to card terms). Card issuers set terms (frequency and amount). Examples include Chase Sapphire Reserve (statement credit up to $120 every four years), Capital One Venture/X (statement credit up to $120 every four years), and American Express premium cards. Card terms vary and should be confirmed on issuer websites before applying. A few popular travel credit cards that include this perk are:
- Chase Sapphire Reserve
- Capital One Venture Card
- IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
- Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card
- Citi / AAdvantage Executive World Elite MasterCard
- Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card
Several loyalty programs and airlines/hotels have offered options to spend points or receive credits toward Trusted Traveler fees (programs and partnerships change). Travelers should confirm current options with the specific loyalty program (for example, Marriott, United, hotel/airline program help pages) before relying on points for the fee. Some airline and hotel loyalty programs also allow you to spend points for a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit, including:
- Marriott Bonvoy
- United MileagePlus
- Orbitz Rewards Platinum Members
- IHG One Rewards
Make the final decision between Global Entry and TSA PreCheck
TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are two different Trusted Traveler Programs, and each performs a different service: TSA PreCheck is for airport security and Global Entry is for immigration.
Because Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck, it is likely the better option for most travelers, especially if they plan to travel internationally. Plus, it only costs between $33 to $42 more than TSA PreCheck alone.
But if you only travel domestically, or you don’t have time to wait for the lengthy Global Entry application process, TSA PreCheck might be the better option for you.
Frequent questions about TSA PreCheck vs Global Entry
Global Entry and TSA PreCheck are different programs with different purposes: the former deals with immigration, and the latter deals with airport security. Global Entry, however, includes TSA PreCheck with its membership, so it’s frequently the better choice for travelers.
Yes, Global Entry is worth it if you travel internationally at least once a year. The time saved at customs and the included TSA PreCheck benefits for domestic flights make it valuable even for occasional international travelers.
The downside to Global Entry is its cost (it’s more expensive than TSA PreCheck) and its lengthy application processing times. CBP/TTP guidance and public reporting commonly reference multi-month processing (often quoted as roughly 4 to 6 months), though actual times vary widely.
It’s faster to get TSA PreCheck than Global Entry. TSA PreCheck processing times are often just 3 to 5 days (some cases up to 60 days), whereas Global Entry processing times commonly run several months.
First, confirm your KTN and name/date of birth are correct in the airline reservation and that your membership hasn’t expired. If everything is correct, contact your airline and, if needed, TSA (AskTSA channels or 866-289-9673). Report the issue within 72 hours when possible so they can investigate.
Yes, TSA PreCheck is available for departures from US airports whether your flight is domestic or international, provided the airline participates and the TSA PreCheck indicator appears on your boarding pass.
The foregoing article was last updated in December 2025. It does not contain legal advice and is for informational purposes only. KAYAK does not guarantee, and accepts no legal liability arising from or connected to, the accuracy, reliability, currency or completeness of any of the information contained in this article and/or any of the content linked to within it. Always check the official government website of your departure and arrival destinations prior to travel for up-to-date information.
Sources:
https://www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/global-entry/eligibility
https://www.tsa.gov/precheck
https://www.tsa.gov/travel/frequently-asked-questions/who-can-apply-tsa-precheckr
https://www.tsa.gov/precheck/enrollment-centers
https://www.tsa.gov/travel/frequently-asked-questions/how-do-i-apply-tsa-precheckr-0
https://www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/global-entry/enrollment-centers
https://www.tsa.gov/travel/frequently-asked-questions/how-long-does-it-take-get-approved
https://www.tsa.gov/precheck/credit-cards-offer
https://help.marriott.com/s/article/Article-22367
https://securityfees.mileageplus.com/
